
By MRS, OSWALD STEIN 
Under the Direction ef Ludwig Simon, M, D^ 




(toss ff rT<b( 

Book -§ £4- 
GtpigM? 

COFHUGHT DEPOSIT. 



A BABY'S DAY 



By 
MRS. OSWALD STEIN 

Author of Leading Women in Social Senrice. 

Member of the National Municipal League. Mother's Aid 

of the Chicago Lying-in Hospital and Dispensary; of the Player's Club. 

Deborah Dramatic Club, Woman's Auxiliary to C. H. I.. 

former treasurer of the Co-Operative League and 

secretary of the Deborah Woman's Club. 

inrestigator for the Home for the 

Friendless and the Chicago* 

Winfield Tuberculosis 

Sanitarium, etc. 



Undtr tht Dirtttion »f 

LUDWIG SIMON, M. D. 

Visiting Obstetrician 
Michael Reese Hospital of Chicago 



THE LAKE VIEW PRESS 

1306 LAKE VIEW BUILDING 

CHICAGO. ILL. 






Copyrieht 1917 
bf BEATRICE STEIN 



DEC !7 1917 

g)G!. A 47 81)0 4 
I- 



D 



TO MY SONS 

CHARLES and PHILIP 

THESE PAGES ARE LOVINGLY 

DEDICATED 



Foreword 



"Love is as the breath of life to the young child, but as it 
needs more than love for its perfect development, the care of 
the little body must be not merely affectionate, it must be 
intelligent." 

In the following pages no attempt has been made to pre- 
sent the subject of baby care and feeding in a technical man- 
ner, nor are the suggestions herein contained intended to be a 
substitute for the services of a physician, but directions 
concerning the daily requirements necessary to the average 
healthy child have been outlined in convenient form. 

By following the instructions presented under the head of 
"The Daily Routine," the busy mother will receive many use- 
ful suggestions, and should endeavor to so regulate her baby's 
habits as to leave ample time for her own rest and recreation, 
without in any degree neglecting the best interests of her 
dear one. 

Happily, at the present time most mothers realize the great 
influence which intelligent care exercises upon the develop- 
ment of their babies, and are eager to secure information and 
knowledge along these lines. To assist in this important 
object is the simple aim of this booklet. 



CONTENTS 
Baby's Daily Routine 

PAGE 

CHAPTER I— FIVE TO SIX O'CLOCK 11 

Early morning feeding — Length of time for nursing — Regularity 
in nursing — Diet of the nursing mother — Beverages — Exercise and 
amusements — How to give the baby the bottle — How to best heat 
the bottle — Testing the temperature of the bottle — Selection of 
bottles and nipples — Rinsing the bottle and nipple — Changing 
baby's diaper — Giving baby orange or prune juice — How to pre- 
pare the orange and prune juice — Giving baby water to drink — 
Teaching baby proper control over his bowel movements — Tend- 
ency to constipation — Treatment of constipation — Use of supposi- 
tories — Diarrhoea — Treatment of Diarrhoea — Vomiting. 

CHAPTER II— EIGHT O'CLOCK 20 

Baby's bath — Temperature of the room — Water for bathing — 
Temperature of water — Bathroom equipment — Toilet articles — 
Clothing — Everything should be in readiness for bath before- 
hand — The baby's outfit — The clothes rack — Undressing the baby 
— Weighing the baby — Kind of scales to use — Recording baby's 
weight — Cleansing baby's eyes — Cleansing ears — Outstanding ears 
— Cleansing nose — The mouth — Care during teething — Washing 
face and body — Drying baby properly — Chafing — Care of the 
genital organs — Care of the scalp — Dandruff — Care of the hair — 
Shortening baby's nails — Dressing baby after his bath — Putting 
on the band and diaper — Pinning the diaper properly — Putting 
on the shirt, petticoat and dress — The stockings — The cashmere 
sacque for cool days — Knitted shawls and other coverings. 

CHAPTER III— NINE O'CLOCK 31 

Feeding — Sleeping outdoors — Taking baby out in stormy or 
severely cold weather — Taking baby out in hot weather — Prickly 
heat — eczema. 



CONTENTS— Continued 

PAGE 

CHAPTER IV— TEN O'CLOCK 34 

Airing the nursery — The nursery furnishings and equipment — 
The baby's bed — Basket for sleeping — Sterilizing the bottles — 
Sterilizing the nipples — Sterilizing the rubber corks or stoppers. 



CHAPTER V— ELEVEN O'CLOCK 37 

Care of the diapers — Washing baby's flannels — Preparation of the 
day's food — Importance of this task — Method of * preparation — 
Heating milk — Pasteurizing milk — Sterilizing milk — Tables and 
rules for making up the food formulae — Table showing composi- 
tion of mother's milk in contrast to that of cow's milk — Fat — 
Sugar — Lime water — Baby's food formulae for first year — Food, in 
addition to milk, allowed the first year — Patent or proprietary 
foods for babies — Modifying cow's milk — The food ingredients — 
- Utensils — Weaning. 



CHAPTER VI— TWELVE O'CLOCK 46 

Noon feeding — Mother's luncheon and rest. 

CHAPTER VII— TWO O'CLOCK 47 

Exercise — Amusement — Crying — The cry of hunger — Of pain — 
Of colic — Thumb sucking. 

CHAPTER VIII— THREE O'CLOCK 50 

Period of waking— Selection of carriage — Baby's outing in warm 
weather — Visitors. 

CHAPTER IX— FOUR O'CLOCK 52 

Opportunity of looking over baby's wardrobe — Shortening clothes 
— List of short clothes. 



CONTENTS— Continued 

PAGE 

CHAPTER X— FIVE O'CLOCK 54 

Giving baby a sponge bath — Getting ready for bed — How to give 
baby a sponge bath. 

CHAPTER XI— SIX O'CLOCK 55 

Putting baby to sleep — Baby should sleep in a bed of his own — 
Should not be rocked to sleep — Nor allowed to suck a rubber 
nipple or pacifier — Disturbed sleep — Various causes and factors — 
Fatigue — Excitement — Overfeeding — Nervousness — Individual 
peculiarity — Remedies — Etc. 

CHAPTER XII— TEN O'CLOCK 57 

Night feeding until baby is six months old — Treatment of croup — 
Convulsions — Earache — Wounds or Cuts — Barley — Oatmeal — Al- 
bumin water — Gruels — Broths — Chicken — Beef — Mutton — Meats — 
Scraped beef — Beef juice — Preparing beef juice by the cold process. 



Baby's Daily Routine 

Chapter I 
FIVE TO SIX O'CLOCK 

EARLY MORNING FEEDING 

The baby will probably awaken between five and six 
o'clock and lustily announce the arrival of a new day. His 
morning cry is generally interpreted as that of hunger, there- 
fore it will save the mother needless inconvenience if she is 
ready to nurse him without much delay. The boracic acid 
solution for washing her nipples should be within reach, or, 
if baby is given the bottle, the necessary apparatus for heat- 
ing same should also be conveniently placed. If the electric 
heater is adjusted ready for use, it is only a moment's work 
to turn on the current, and place the bottle in the saucepan 
of water. These apparently trivial details seem of minor im- 
portance, but in the wee small hours of the morning, when 
the other members of the family are still asleep, the annoy- 
ance produced by lack of simple preparations for baby's early 
morning feeding is a large and disturbing factor of discomfort 
to the entire household. Therefore, "be prepared." 

LENGTH OF TIME FOR NURSING 

Ordinarily a baby should nurse about twenty minutes, but 
this varies, depending upon the freedom with which the milk 
flows, the amount of milk taken, the baby's vigor, etc., these 
conditions making it sufficient for some babies to nurse for 
only ten or fifteen minutes. 

11 



REGULARITY IN NURSING 

Regularity in nursing is quite important at the very start, 
and it is especially easy to begin this regime when baby is 
very young, as he sleeps almost constantly then, and the 
mother can see how well this system works, as compared with 
the method of former times, when a baby was fed at all hours, 
causing it to be colicky and restless. 

DIET OF THE NURSING MOTHER 

The diet of the nursing mother should not differ greatly 
from that which she has ordinarily taken. Her food should 
be nutritious and well balanced, but she should not eat fre- 
quently between meals. To nurse her baby successfully she 
must be in good health, get plenty of unbroken rest, and 
keep her digestion in good order. As it is of the utmost 
advantage to the baby to be breast-fed, every mother who is 
possibly able to do so should give her little one this benefit. 
Determination to nurse the baby, and confidence in being able 
to do so, are essential factors in her ultimate success. 

The chief point in selecting the mother's diet is that she 
avoid food which is prone to overtax her powers of digestion, 
and choose that which is most nutritious. Milk prepared in 
any acceptable way, an abundance of bread and good butter, 
fresh vegetables in season, thoroughly cooked, ripe fruits in 
season, raw, stewed or baked; eggs simply prepared; a mod- 
erate quantity of digestible meat, fish in season, and light 
desserts, should compose the diet. 

BEVERAGES 

Water, milk and cocoa are the most desirable beverages 
for the nursing mother. She should avoid the use of alcoholic 
drinks, and beer is not to be recommended. Malt liquors, 
when necessary, can be substituted by good extracts of malt 

12 



which contain but little sugar, and are prepared especially to 
avoid overtaxing the mother's digestion. Formerly tea had 
a great reputation among the old-fashioned mothers for stimu- 
lating the flow of milk, but this belief is simply a relic of 
days gone by, and rests upon no accurate testimony. Those 
nursing mothers of former years who drank large quantities 
of tea were usually in poor condition, and their babies were 
not well nourished. 

EXERCISE AND AMUSEMENTS HAVING THEIR 

EFFECT ON THE MILK 

A nursing mother should exercise in the open air, but she 
must guard against fatigue. Any form of recreation which 
agrees with her may be taken, walking is good. As regards 
amusement, there is no objection to a mother going to a 
theatre, or dancing in moderation. It is highly essential, 
however, that a mother should avoid all extremes of emo- 
tional excitement, worry, grief and fatigue during the period 
of nursing, as all of these things have a decided influence 
upon the quality and supply of the milk and so have their 
effect on the baby. 

HOW TO GIVE THE BABY THE BOTTLE 

When a baby is given the bottle, he should be taken from 
his crib, and held in his mother's lap during the entire feed- 
ing. It is an injurious practice to give the baby the bottle 
and then leave him alone. If the nipple slips out of his mouth, 
or the bottle rolls out of his reach, he is apt to suck his thumb. 
While feeding him, the bottle should be held so that the milk 
fills the upper part or neck, otherwise the baby will take in 
a great deal of air with the milk, which may give him the 
colic. It is a good plan to hold the baby upright for a little 

13 



while after he has finished the bottle, but avoid rocking or 
jolting him up and down. 

TESTING THE TEMPERATURE OF THE BOTTLE 

To determine that the food is of the right temperature 
for baby to take, shake a few drops from the bottle upon the 
inner side of the wrist, where it should feel slightly warm,' 
never hot nor cold. It is inexcusable to give the baby a bottle 
that is too hot, but the mother or nurse should never test the 
temperature of the milk by inserting the nipple into her 
mouth. Blood heat is the right temperature. 

HOW BEST TO HEAT THE BOTTLE 

When about to feed the baby, the bottle is taken from the 
ice, and warmed by placing it in a tall saucepan or large 
enamel cup, filled with warm water deep enough to cover the 
milk in the bottle. The most convenient way is to place the 
saucepan or cup under running hot water, but if this is not 
available, the bottle may be warmed quickly over an electric 
or alcohol heater. Electric heaters are especially useful for 
the night or early morning feeding. 

SELECTION OF BOTTLES AND NIPPLES 

When purchasing the bottles, select the cylindrical shaped 
ones, with graduated measuring marks blown in the glass. 
These are the most practical and safe, and as they have no 
angles in which dirt can accumulate, they are easily kept 
clean. All complicated arrangements are fruitful sources of 
disease, besides being difficult to handle. The best kind of 
nipples to use are those made of the black rubber, which seem 
to be the most durable. Many prefer the "anti-colic" brand, 
as they do not collapse easily. When the nipples are pur- 
chased they have very small openings, but the proper sized 

14 



holes are made by piercing them near the top with a No. 10 
red hot needle. 

RINSING THE BOTTLE AND NIPPLE 

Immediately after the bottle has been taken, it should be 
emptied of whatever quantity of food it contains and thor- 
oughly rinsed in cold water to which a little baking soda has 
been added (two tablespoonfuls to the quart), and then filled 
with clean water. By doing this the regular process of bottle 
washing will be much simplified. The nipple must also be 
rinsed at the end of each feeding, turned inside out and 
scrubbed with a soft brush. It should then be placed in a 
covered glass or jar until such time as it is to be sterilized. 
Rubber nipples do not seem to last as long when left soaking 
in water as when kept dry, but if the mother wishes to be 
particularly careful, the nipples may be placed in a solution 
of boracic acid crystals (2 teaspoonfuls to a pint of water). 

CHANGING BABY'S DIAPER 

After the bottle and nipple have been rinsed, baby's wet 
nightgown should be taken off, his diaper changed, and he 
himself comfortably attired in a fresh kimono or robe. He 
will then play or gurgle a short time, and when mother is 
ready for breakfast, baby can be given orange or prune juice, 
or some water to drink. 

PREPARING THE ORANGE JUICE 

The juice should be freshly squeezed from the orange 
and strained. At first one teaspoonful may be given. 

PREPARING THE PRUNE JUICE 

The prune juice should be prepared by steaming half a 
pound of prunes in a double boiler until quite soft, and then 
strained to remove the pulp. If the prunes are soaked over 
night they will become tender in a short time. When the 

15 



prunes are cooked over a direct fire they must be continually 
watched so that the water does not boil away. Therefore it 
is more convenient to use the double boiler. 

GIVING BABY WATER TO DRINK 

A baby should have cool, pure water to drink from the 
time of its birth. A fresh supply should be boiled daily and 
kept in a covered glass jar or bottle, so that it remains sweet 
and clean. During the first year it should be given several 
times during the day 'from the nursing bottle, later it may 
be given from a spoon or cup. 

TEACHING BABY CONTROL OVER HIS BOWEL 

MOVEMENTS 

At a very early age, even at three months, a great deal 
can be done in teaching baby proper control over his bowel 
movements. Besides the early cultivation of a habit of regu- 
larity and cleanliness, which saves much work in the washing 
of diapers, the habit of regularity also helps to prevent con- 
stipation. At a certain fixed hour, best after one of the prin- 
cipal meals, generally breakfast, or before his bath, baby 
should be supported on his nursery chair or chamber, and 
kept there for a few minutes. In a surprisingly short time 
the position is all that is required, and with most babies, 
after several weeks of this attention, the bowels will move 
as soon as baby is placed on the vessel. Steaming hot water 
in the chamber will often help to produce results. Of course 
patience and persistence are necessary in effecting this train- 
ing early, but the end certainly justifies the means — that of 
doing away, as soon as possible, with the ever offensive diaper. 

TENDENCY TO CONSTIPATION 

If the baby seems prone to constipation, and the orange 
or prune juice does not have the desired result, daily mas- 

16 



sage of the abdomen is an excellent remedy. This should be 
done just before the hour at which the movement is desired 
and kept up for five or ten minutes. The palm of the hand 
should be applied with gentle pressure, using a little warm 
olive oil or sweet oil. Use a light circular movement, begin- 
ning just above the right groin, carrying the hand to the 
ribs, then across the body and down on the left side. Glycerin 
suppositories, of a size for children, are also effectively used 
for emptying the bowel. A more economical plan is to employ 
little home-made suppositories of castile soap. This consists 
of a smooth stick of soap about an inch and a quarter long, 
conical in shape, about as thick as a lead pencil, tapering 
from the base. Before inserting the soap stick into the 
bowel it should be greased with a little vaseline or cold cream. 
If these methods are not effective or convenient, an injec- 
tion of normal salt solution, composed of one-half teaspoonful 
of common table salt, dissolved in a cupful of warm water, 
given with a soft rubber ear syringe, filled twice, will gen- 
erally result in a good movement. (The syringe is merely 
a rubber bulb with a nozzle on one end.) However, it is 
best to be careful in giving baby too frequent enemas or 
injections. When constipation is prolonged, it is advisable 
to consult the physician, as baby may be constipated because 
of some error in diet, or because he does not get enough food 
to form a residue in his intestines, and in such cases it is 
necessary that the physician prescribe a different formula 
for the baby than he is getting. 

DIARRHCEA 

If baby has an attack of diarrhoea, however slight, the 
mother should consult the physician. The treatment of even 
simple diarrhoea is of importance, as more serious forms 
often begin with simple diarrhoea, and after the baby's 

17 



digestive organs become weakened, it takes some time for 
them to become normal again. For treatment in an attack 
of diarrhoea pending the doctor's advice, give baby nothing 
but boiled water or barley water. No food of any kind should 
be allowed for twenty-four hours. To prepare the barley 
water, dissolve one level tablespoonful of Robinson's patent 
barley or prepared barley flour, in one pint of water contain- 
ing a pinch of salt. Cook for half an hour in a double boiler 
and at the end of this time add sufficient boiled water to make 
a pint. Strain through cheesecloth. 

If the baby requires immediate relief, his condition can 
be bettered at once by giving him a colonic flushing of normal 
salt solution. For this purpose a fountain syringe outfit con- 
sisting of a one quart rubber bag, a long rubber connecting 
pipe, and a small rubber rectal tube, No. 10, will be found 
the most convenient. Baby is laid on a table on his left side 
and a soft rubber male catheter is inserted slowly in the 
anus for about six inches. Connection is made between the 
catheter and the rubber tube of the fountain syringe by 
means of the glass part of a dropper. The fountain syringe 
is hung about one foot above the table and a pint of luke- 
warm normal salt solution (common table salt) is allowed to 
flow into the lower bowel, washing its irritating contents 
into the cloths that have been previously placed about the 
baby's buttocks. This treatment is especially efficacious if 
the diarrhoea is accompanied by temperature. In the latter 
case a bottle filled with cold water should be placed under the 
baby's head. The ordinary hot water bottle is convenient. 

VOMITING 

If baby vomits frequently, examine his bands to see if they 
are not too tight, for if they press too hard on a full stomach, 
vomiting is apt to be the result. Or ascertain if he has been 

18 



rocked or tossed about soon after a feeding. In many cases, 
however, vomiting is the result of overfeeding the baby. If 
breast fed, and the vomiting occurs immediately after nursing, 
the baby should be kept a shorter time at the breast. Lessen 
the time of nursing one or two minutes until the baby retains 
the whole feeding. If bottle fed, the amount or strength of 
the food, or both, should be decreased. 



19 



Chapter II 
EIGHT O'CLOCK 

BABY'S BATH 

Baby is now ready for his bath, which will probably 
require from one-half to three-quarters of an hour. All the 
articles necessary for this purpose should be ready before- 
hand, and the room in which the baby is to be bathed at the 
proper temperature, which is about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. 

TEMPERATURE OF THE WATER 

The temperature of the water is of consequence, as cold 
baths are not to be recommended for very young babies, and 
the use of too hot water weakens them. As the heat of the 
water cannot be estimated by hand with any degree of ac- 
curacy, it is essential that a bath thermometer be used. Until 
a baby is three or four months old the temperature of the 
water should be 100 degrees, and then slowly reduced, so 
that when baby is six months old, the water should be 95 
degrees, and after twelve months old, 90 degrees. 

EQUIPMENT FOR BATHING 

Before bathing the baby, the mother should provide her- 
self with a low chair, a long apron made of outing flannel, 
and a piece of oilcloth to put on the floor underneath the tub. 
The tub is then placed on the bath table arranged for this 
purpose, and the weighing scales adjusted. The scales should 
be placed in a warm spot, on a firm surface, preferably a box 
or low table. If the platform scales are used the process of 
weighing the baby is much simpler. 

20 



MOTHER'S BATH APRON 

As the mother's bath apron serves a two-fold purpose, it 
is best made of two pieces of soft white outing flannel, one 
piece being long enough to extend from the waist almost to 
her feet, and broad enough to completely cover the front of 
her gown, the other piece quite as broad but about four 
inches shorter. Both pieces are sewed to a waist belt, form- 
ing in reality two aprons, the upper part of which is thrown 
over the shoulder when the baby is being lifted from the tub, 
and then used as a dry and warm covering when he reaches 
his mother's lap. 

TOILET ARTICLES 

Baby's toilet articles and tray should then be conveniently 
placed, so that it will not be necessary for the mother to 
leave the room until baby's bath is entirely completed and 
he is fully dressed. By doing this there will be no chance 
of his becoming chilled. For immediate use the toilet basket 
should contain one soap box and one cake of pure white 
castile soap, one small roll of antiseptic gauze, one small roll 
of antiseptic absorbent cotton, one tube of pure white vase- 
line, one can of pure borated talcum powder, one small box 
of boracic acid crystals for making the solution to be used 
in cleansing eyes, .mouth, etc., one small bottle of olive or 
sweet oil, one small soft hair brush, one pair of small, blunt 
pointed scissors, two soft cotton or knitted wash cloths, 
one for the face and one for the body, several soft towels, 
two sizes of safety pins, and an extra yard of sterile gauze 
or small piece of old linen should always be near at hand in 
case of emergency. 

THE BABY'S OUTFIT 

Most mothers will have made great preparations with 
regard to the baby's wardrobe during the months preceding 

21 



his coming, and there will be a large selection of baby clothes 
collected in a separate drawer or basket ready for use. 
Although every mother loves to arrange a dainty wardrobe 
for the little stranger, elaborately trimmed clothes with 
laces and ruffles are undesirable, as they are simply a source 
of extra work in the laundry. The necessary articles for the 
baby's outfit should consist of the following : 3 flannel bands, 
light or heavy, according to the season ; 3 knitted bands with 
diaper tab to replace binder after the first six or eight weeks ; 
3 dozen or more diapers of cotton bird's-eye, 18 inches long; 
later one yard long; 4 shirts, cotton and wool, long sleeves, 
buttoned all the way down the front. If the baby is small 
the first size will do, but generally it is advisable to secure 
the second size; 4 petticoats, the knitted kind, fastening on 
the shoulders; 8 slips or dresses, simply made of nainsook; 
6 nightgowns of flannelette, or the Arnold make, if preferred ; 
3 kimonos or sacques of cashmere, flannel or silk. One each, 
cloak and hood ; a veil and a pair of mittens ; 6 pair socks, and 
several bibs. 

THE CLOTHES RACK 

For immediate use after baby's bath, the clothes rack 
should contain the necessary wearing apparel, such as the 
knitted abdominal band, the shirt, Gertrude slip, and white 
dress to be worn during the day. The diapers are also laid 
out and folded in readiness for adjustment. After these 
things are properly arranged, the baby is ready to be un- 
dressed. 

UNDRESSING THE BABY 

The most convenient way is for the mother to place the 
baby on her lap, on his back, unfasten his clothes and slip 
the garments off over his feet. He should then be placed on 
the scales to be weighed. 

22 



WEIGHING THE BABY 

To weigh him properly, wrap him in a shawl or light 
blanket, and after his weight is noted, the blanket or shawl 
should be weighed separately and this result subtracted from 
the total. This will give the correct number of pounds which 
baby actually weighs. Never weigh the baby with his clothes 
on or just before his feeding or soon after a bowel movement. 
The proper time is before his bath. 

KIND OF SCALES TO USE 

The most satisfactory kind of scales to use for weighing 
small babies are the ordinary grocer's scales with the scoop 
attachment. Those with the platform are more expensive 
and are more generally used for weighing older children. 
Every baby under one year of age should be weighed once 
a week, and those who are gaining at the rate of from four 
to six ounces per week are presumably getting the proper 
nourishment. 

RECORDING BABY'S WEIGHT 

The average healthy baby weighs about seven pounds at 
birth, but during the first week he loses a little. This is 
regained, however, and he should be able to increase his 
weight about three-fourths of an ounce a day during the first 
months of life, one-half an ounce a day at six months, and 
one-fourth of an ounce a day at one year. 

Having weighed the baby and the total recorded, the 
mother should wrap him in a warm blanket and place him 
on her lap, so that his eyes, ears and nose should first be 
cleansed before putting him in the tub. 

CLEANSING BABY'S EYES 

The eyes should be cleansed with a small piece of absorb- 
ent cotton, thoroughly wet with boric acid solution (one 

23 



teaspoonful of boric acid crystals to a cupful of warm water). 
The cotton should be held close to the corner of the eye 
and the solution allowed to trickle into it, and then gently 
wiped outward. 

CLEANSING EARS 
Baby's ears are sometimes washed while he is in the tub, 
but the outer portion may be cleansed very gently with a 
soft wash cloth and dried with a small towel. It is injurious 
to use a toothpick or hairpin in attempting to clean out the 
canal of the ear unless well covered with cotton. Any mois- 
ture which flows in during the bath can be removed by insert- 
ing the corner of a soft cloth, which can be twisted into a blunt 
cone. This will absorb the moisture. 

OUTSTANDING EARS 

Many otherwise pretty babies are made uncomely by out- 
standing ears. While the baby is very young is the time to 
correct this trouble, and gauze caps especially made for the 
purpose can be purchased at any of the children's shops or 
drug stores. 

CLEANSING NOSE 

If the baby's nostrils are clogged with mucus or pus, they 
should first be freed from this discharge by carefully cleansing 
with a swab of cotton dipped in the boric acid solution 
already made. The pledget is formed by wrapping absorbent 
cotton around a wooden toothpick, being sure that the pick 
is well covered, as one must use care in this process. A 
drop of oil or melted vaseline in each nostril will soften the 
secretion which sometimes gathers. A healthy baby is able 
at all times to breathe without discomfort when the mouth 
is closed, but if he has the sniffles, or a slight cold, and his 
nose seems stopped up, the foregoing treatment is generally 
effective. 

24 



THE MOUTH 

Before baby's teeth come, the saliva keeps the mouth 
healthy, therefore it is best left alone in early infancy. Some- 
times thrush or sprue gathers in the mouths of young babies, 
but this is caused by uncleanliness, or carelessness in the 
handling of the bottles or nipples. A baby who is allowed to 
suck a pacifier is apt to have thrush. In appearance thrush 
is like little white curds scattered over the mouth, tongue 
and lining membrane of the cheeks, and does not come off 
easily in rubbing. Thrush can be cured by giving the baby 
a mixture of one part cane sugar, two parts borax, and three 
parts bicarbonate of soda, wrapped in a bit of clean muslin 
and tied in nipple form. The baby sucks one of these freshly 
made three or four times daily. 

CARE DURING TEETHING 

There is some variation among healthy babies as to the 
eruption of the teeth. The breast fed baby is more likely to 
cut his teeth early, and with less disturbance than the bottle 
fed baby. There may also be a great variability in the time 
when the teeth appear owing to a family characteristic, as 
when all the children have a very early or a very late teething 
period. In general, baby's first tooth should appear when 
he is between six and eight months old. 

Greatly delayed dentition, however, calls for the advice 
of a physician, as it may mean some error in diet or nutri- 
tional disturbance, which needs medical attention. When the 
teeth are about to protrude, the baby will "drool," put his 
fingers in his mouth, may be feverish, restless, and lose his 
appetite, but as soon as the tooth is cut, these symptoms 
generally disappear. In this connection it should be borne 
in mind that teething is a normal process, the same as any 
other bone development, and if baby has been kept well 

25 



through proper care, little discomfort may be expected from 
teething. While there may be great distress and perhaps 
suffering to a baby who is susceptible to even very slight 
disturbances, many ailments which owe their origin to other 
causes are attributed to the process of teething. However, 
if a baby is very fretful or restless, or the gums appear red 
and swollen, relief may be given by allowing him to bite on 
a soft rubber ring. Lancing should never be resorted to with- 
out the advice of the physician. 

The teeth come in groups as follows : The two lower 
central teeth come first at six or eight months; two months 
later the four upper central teeth appear, and within the next 
two months the two other lower teeth come through. So 
baby should have eight teeth at twelve or fourteen months. 
At about sixteen months the four double teeth are cut; at 
eighteen months the eye and stomach teeth, and finally, by 
the age of two and one-half years, the other four double 
teeth protrude, which completes the first full set of tem- 
porary teeth. Thus, at one year a healthy baby should have 
six teeth, at one and a half years, twelve teeth, at two years, 
sixteen teeth, and at two and a half years, twenty teeth. 

WASHING FACE AND BODY 

Baby's face is now to be washed, taking care that soap 
is kept away from his eyes. First pat the face dry with a 
soft cloth and then proceed to soap the whole body, turning 
baby on the side while soaping his back. Then gently lower 
him into the tub, and support his head on your left forearm, 
keeping your right hand under his legs and feet until he is in 
the water. The duration of the bath should be from three to 
five minutes and the water should be the temperature of the 
body — about 99 degrees Fahrenheit. 

26 



DRYING BABY PROPERLY 

In drying the body it is better to pat it gently with a soft 
towel instead of rubbing the delicate skin. It is important 
that baby be thoroughly dry before using the talcum pow- 
der, however, especially in a fat baby, who is apt to become 
chafed if the powder is not carefully dusted into all the folds 
and creases of his skin. 

CHAFING 

Chafing often occurs in the arm pits and in the folds of 
the neck in fat babies, and especially about the buttocks, 
thighs, and groins. In babies disposed to chafing, extreme 
cleanliness must be exercised in the matter of diapers, which 
may not have been changed often enough, or which have 
been washed in strong soap and not thoroughly rinsed. In 
such cases starch or bran water should be used for the baby's 
bath, and no soap. An oil rub is very desirable, and may be 
continued up to six months. Rub under the chin and arms 
and in all creases around the groin and genital organs, and 
then turn the baby on its stomach, and rub the back. 

CARE OF THE GENITAL ORGANS 

Perfect cleanliness is the principal essential in the care 
of these organs in both sexes. In a baby boy the foreskin 
should be pushed back every day and the parts carefully 
washed with cotton and warm water, removing all white 
particles that may have collected there. 

CARE OF THE SCALP— DANDRUFF 

The scalp need not be washed every day unless it is 
covered with dandruff or "milk crust" — large yellowish 
patches — which need careful attention. Great cleanliness 
will often check the excess of oily secretion, and a patch 
which has already formed may be removed by anointing the 

27 



spot with warm olive oil or a little melted cocoa buttei at 
night and washing the same with warm water in the morning. 
No fine comb or any other hard instrument should be used 
on the scalp for removing these scales. Especial care should 
be taken when washing baby's scalp, as the "fontanelle" or 
"soft spot" on the top of baby's head is open until he is about 
eighteen months old. This spot ought not to be rubbed 
roughly or anything allowed to strike it. 

CARE OF THE HAIR 

Besides washing the hair it is necessary to brush it, not 
only for appearance sake, but also because frequent brushing 
stimulates the little glands at the roots of the hair which 
secrete the oil and thus keep it smooth and glossy. The 
brush for baby's first use is best selected of soft camel's hair 
in order not to cause the scalp to become irritated. Some 
new born babies may not have much hair, others have a 
thicker growth at this time, but during the later months most 
babies have considerable hair, and the mother should know 
how to care for it properly in order to insure a good growth 
in later life. 

SHORTENING BABY'S NAILS 

When it is necessary to shorten baby's nails, they should 
be cut off with a small sterilized scissors before baby is 
bathed. The finger nails should be kept trimmed, but not 
down to the quick, or too much at the corners. The toe nails 
must be cut straight across, and the corners should not be 
rounded off. If this method is followed there will be slight 
possibility of baby's developing ingrowing toe nails later. 

DRESSING BABY AFTER HIS BATH— PUTTING ON 
THE BAND AND THE DIAPER 

After baby is taken from his bath and properly dried, the 
band is sewed in place. This is used to keep the navel dress- 

28 



ing from slipping, and must never be drawn too tight about 
the abdomen. Later, in about two months, the knitted bands 
with the diaper tabs can be used. This band is drawn over 
the baby's feet and the diaper fastened thereto. The diaper 
should never be pinned too tight and must not be too thick. 
Neither should baby be burdened with a small folded diaper 
inside the regular one. Besides causing discomfort, the great 
thickness between the baby's legs may create a tendency to 
bow legs. To protect the dresses or slips from the excess of 
urine, a small quilted pad, about twelve inches square, can 
be laid directly under the baby after he is diapered, and his 
clothing arranged over this pad. As it is much simpler to 
wash these pads than the ordinary diaper, one of the most 
objectionable features of baby's outfit will be lessened. For 
sanitary reasons a rubber diaper cover must not be resorted 
to unless it is absolutely necessary, as for instance, when 
going on a short journey. 

PINNING THE DIAPER 

When pinning the diaper to baby's band, care should be 
taken regarding the use of the safety pin. The diaper pin 
should always be placed in a horizontal position, that is, from 
side to side, and not up or down. In the latter way the pin 
may become unfastened when baby is held in a sitting posture, 
and so become a source of discomfort, if not suffering. 

PUTTING ON THE SHIRT, PETTICOAT, AND DRESS 

Over the flannel or knit band the shirt should be worn, 
and then the petticoat or Gertrude slip, which many prefer, 
as it is easier to adjust. This should be fitted within the 
dress which baby is to wear and the two put on together, so 
that unnecessary handling of baby will be avoided. 

29 



THE STOCKINGS 

The feet should then be covered with closely knitted silk 
or wool stockings in cold weather, and during the summer 
months socks may be worn. It is important to keep the 
baby's feet and legs warm, therefore the baby's stockings and 
diaper should meet, and no part of the legs be exposed. 

THE CASHMERE SACQUE FOR COOL DAYS 

On cold days the baby should wear a cashmere or flannel 
sacque over his white dress, but elaborately embroidered and 
trimmed ones are often more ornamental than useful. If the 
mother desires, pretty wrappers may be used instead of slips 
when baby is still very young, as the wrappers are open 
down the front, and therefore easier to adjust than the other 
slips. At a very early age, when baby is unable to hold up 
his head, the clothing should be drawn over his feet. When 
he grows older, and can sit up alone, it is easier and more 
convenient to dress him by slipping his clothing over his 
head. 

KNITTED SHAWLS AND OTHER COVERING 

It is well to have several light woolen shawls on hand, 
which can be quickly slipped on the baby when necessary. 
Knitted wool blankets are serviceable also, and are preferable 
to the woven ones bought at the shops, as the knitted ones 
are lighter in weight, more easily washed, and quickly dried. 
They also remain softer than the woven blankets bought at 
the shops. 



30 



Chapter III 

NINE O'CLOCK 

FEEDING— SLEEPING OUTDOORS 

The mother should now have baby's bottle warmed for his 
nine o'clock feeding, or be ready to nurse him, and then 
arrange all the necessary paraphernalia for his outdoor nap. 
After baby is three or four weeks old he will derive much 
benefit from sleeping out of doors, on a sunny porch, or 
lacking this, he can be placed before an open window, and 
the door of the room closed so as to avoid a draft. If he 
is well wrapped up and the day is clear and dry there is no 
excuse for keeping baby indoors. It is a great convenience 
to possess an extra wicker crib or basket for porch use, as in 
general the ordinary baby carriage is too cramped and small 
to be a proper bed for a little growing body. If a crib is not 
available, the mother can always secure the family laundry 
basket. When baby is put to sleep out of doors he must be 
warmly dressed. He should wear his bonnet, coat, mittens, 
etc., and when the weather is very cold he should wear a 
sweater or interlining under his cloak, also leggings and a 
heavier bonnet than usual. A little knitted hood of woolen 
yarn is very acceptable and a sleeping bag is indispensable. 
Over this baby should be covered with soft woolen blankets 
which are secured to the mattress by means of large safety 
pins attached to tapes which are tied to the crib. These 
bedclothes fasteners can be purchased at any of the baby 
shops and are also excellent for use during baby's regular 
sleeping period at night. 

A screen should be placed about the crib or basket to 

31 



protect it from draughts, or pads may be made from heavy 
blankets and attached to the sides of the basket or crib to 
shelter baby from possible winds. Always place baby in a 
bright spot, but do not let the sun shine directly in his face. 

TAKING BABY OUT IN STORMY OR SEVERELY 
COLD WEATHER 

It is safer not to send baby out when it is intensely cold 
and there is a high wind, as a young baby has not the same 
powers of resistance as an older child and therefore cannot 
withstand the same exposure. On such days it is best to 
give a young baby his airing in the nursery, as heretofore 
specified, by opening all the windows in the room and closing 
the door to avoid a direct draft. The baby should be dressed 
the same way as if he were going out in his carriage. 

TAKING BABY OUT IN HOT WEATHER 

In excessively hot weather baby should also be kept 
indoors the early part of the afternoon, and dressed as cool 
as possible. When it is time for his afternoon airing, dress 
him in a thin shirt or sleeveless band, a diaper and a white 
slip, and place him in the coolest spot that can be found. 
Cover the basket or outdoor crib with netting to protect him 
from mosquitoes and flies, and he will feel comfortable and 
happy. 

PRICKLY HEAT 

If he is dressed too warm and fussy he may become 
troubled with prickly heat, which is very annoying and will 
cause him to become fretful and restless. Treatment of this 
consists, consequently, in avoiding the cause, and babies sub- 
ject to prickly heat should always wear thin gauze or linen 
underwear. Woolen underclothing should not be worn. The 
following treatment will allay the itching often caused by 

32 



prickly heat : Give frequent sponge baths of bicarbonate of 
soda, one tablespoonful to a cup of water. Do not rub 
the skin in drying, and several times a day dust thoroughly 
with a powder composed of one ounce each of powdered 
starch and powdered oxide of zinc, with sixty grains of boric 
acid. This can be obtained at any drug store already pre- 
pared and should be used freely. 

ECZEMA 

Eczema is also an annoying and irritating skin disease 
with which some babies are afflicted, and in chronic cases of 
long standing it is advisable to consult the physician for 
treatment. In most instances, however, eczema is a sign that 
baby is being overnourished and is getting too much fat and 
starch. The diet must be regulated at once, and the baby 
nursed less frequently. The night feeding should be omitted 
by the Sixth month and the baby given an abundance of water 
to drink. Fresh air and exercise are imperative and mean- 
while external treatment should not be neglected. In general 
washing the baby with water at this time is harmful and 
increases the trouble, but it is necessary to use it once in 
cleansing the parts affected, in the form of soap and water. 
After this preliminary cleansing, substitute oiling with olive 
oil instead of the usual daily washing for the baby, and wipe 
off thoroughly with a soft oily cloth. The folds and creases 
of the skin must be kept dry and powdered with borated 
talcum. When the surface begins to dry up, zinc ointment 
may be used. This can be purchased at the drug store 
already prepared. 



33 



Chapter IV 

TEN O'CLOCK 

AIRING THE NURSERY 

The nursery should now be cleaned and aired while the 
baby is absent. The bed covers are taken off and exposed to 
the air; the floor should be wiped with a damp cloth, all 
empty bottles and other utensils used in feeding should be 
removed, and particularly soiled diapers, which should never 
be allowed to remain in the nursery. 

THE NURSERY FURNISHINGS AND EQUIPMENT 

The first point to be determined in the successful equip- 
ment of the nursery is that the furnishings be reduced, to the 
necessary minimum, as a sense of comfort for the baby can 
be gained only by the intelligent elimination of all dispensable 
articles. A few really comfortable things are "lovelier" than 
any number of "show pieces," however exquisite or dainty 
they may be, and although baby may receive many beautiful 
gifts and luxuriant trifles, these have no place in a nursery. 
All that is really necessary are the following: A crib, a rug 
or two, a basket for the toilet articles, a chiffonier for the 
clothing, a table for weighing the baby and one for his bath, 
a set of scales, a screen to protect baby from drafts, and a 
low chair and rocker for the mother. The room itself should 
be large, light and airy, having a southern exposure, if 
possible. 

THE FURNISHINGS 

The furnishings should be simple and of materials that 
can be easily kept free from dust. Small, washable rugs are 

34 



the most practical, as they can be taken up frequently and 
the floor and woodwork wiped with a damp cloth. 

THE BABY'S BED 

The ideal bed for baby is an iron or brass crib without 
ornamental design. This is far more serviceable than a costly 
bassinette covered with draperies and dust catching frills. The 
crib should be furnished with a good spring and mattress and a 
pillow about an inch high, filled with hair, which is cooler than 
one filled with feathers or down. No pillow is required for 
a tiny baby, as an infant can sleep better when its head is 
not elevated. 

BASKET FOR SLEEPING 

If one does not wish to provide a regular crib for the baby 
until he grows older, a large oblong wicker clothes basket 
may be safely used for four or five months. This little im- 
provised cot can be moved easily from room to room and 
placed beside the mother's bed at night if so desired. To 
beautify it a little and make it appear more dainty for a wee 
baby, the basket can be trimmed with pretty washable muslin 
or near silk, but on account of ventilation, it must not be too 
heavily lined with any closely woven material. Properly fur- 
nished the little cot should contain one little hair pad or 
mattress made to fit the bottom of the basket, one piece of 
stork sheeting to protect the mattress, two cotton pads to lay 
over the sheeting, two silkoline comforts filled with cotton and 
knotted closely so that they may wash well, and two small 
blankets of either cotton and wool or all wool — no pillow is 
needed. These coverings can be used practically in the same 
order for baby's regular crib when purchased later. 

STERILIZING THE BOTTLES 

The bottles having been previously rinsed and filled with 
clean water containing a little baking soda, they should now 

35 



be scrubbed with hot soap suds and placed in a vessel of 
water. First secure a large pan of white enamel, high enough 
to almost cover the bottles, size about 8^x10^4 inches, with 
handles attached on both ends; stand the bottles in this pan 
and fill it with water. Put this on the stove and boil steadily 
for fifteen minutes. This will sterilize the bottles. Allow 
them to stand in this water for about ten minutes after 
having turned off the gas, in order to give them time to cool, 
until you are ready to prepare the food. 

STERILIZING THE NIPPLES 

Rinse the nipples and turn them inside out by means of a 
blunt wooden stick, then scrub them thoroughly with a small 
soft brush. Put them in a pan, cover with water to which 
has been added a teaspoonful of borax and boil for five minutes 
only. Pour off the water, rinse again thoroughly, turn them 
right side out and put them in a clean, dry, sterilized glass jar, 
with a cover that fits close enough to keep out the dust. 
Rubber nipples treated this way will not become spongy and 
soft, and Avill last much longer than if left to soak in water. 
However, if the mother prefers, she may place the nipples in a 
glass of fresh water (after sterilizing) to which a little borax 
has been added. 

STERILIZING THE RUBBER CORKS OR STOPPERS 

The rubber corks for stoppering the baby's bottles should 
also be sterilized, when these are used instead of the sterilized 
absorbent cotton. The corks are more convenient to use, as 
they do not stick to the bottle, nor fall out easily. In the 
latter method there is danger of getting small particles of the 
cotton on the nipple or food, therefore many mothers prefer to 
use the rubber corks. 



36 



Chapter V 
ELEVEN O'CLOCK 

CARE OF THE DIAPERS 

Soiled diapers must always be rinsed immediately, put 
into a pail with a tight cover and afterwards boiled for fifteen 
minutes. They must always be rinsed entirely free from 
soap and dried in the open air and sunshine when possible. 
No starch or blueing should be used and it is important that 
the diapers be thoroughly dried to prevent the baby from 
becoming chafed or its skin irritated. Pure white soap must 
be used, free from any injurious or irritating substances. 

WASHING BABY'S FLANNELS 

Baby's shirt and flannels are best washed in lukewarm 
water containing a solution of soft soap or borax and squeezed 
dry by hand. The water in which they are rinsed must be 
of the same temperature as that in which they are washed. 
This will keep them soft and fluffy and prevent them from 
shrinking. The shirt and stockings should then be dried on 
baby's shirt and stocking frames. 

PREPARATION OF THE FOOD 

After these things have been attended to, the mother's 
most imperative duty of the day remains to be fulfilled, 
namely, the preparation of the baby's food, if he is artificially 
or bottle fed. As this task must necessarily be a daily one 
for many months, it may be accomplished more easily and 
quickly if each day the same time and method for doing the 
work is chosen. In most cases the mother's physician leaves 
written instructions, which generally cover the number of 

37 



ounces and meals, the quantity of each meal, the intervals 
of feeding, and the method of preparation. 

In some instances, however, a physician is not always 
available, and the mother must take upon herself the task 
of making up the day's formula. By this it must not be 
taken for granted that one set of rules or formulae will be 
invariably successful with all babies, but it is desirable that 
there should be available a simple, practical series of tables 
by which a mother may easily and readily make up the day's 
food for the average healthy baby at different ages. 

Although there are some babies that seem to do well with 
very little care in the matter of feeding, and apparently to 
thrive despite this neglect, it should be remembered that 
unless the food is prepared with especial care and considera- 
tion for the requirements of the individual baby, he may lose 
weight considerably. It seems evident from this, therefore, 
that every mother should at least personally direct the prep- 
aration of her baby's food, and if she gives the formulae 
hereafter outlined a little study, the process will not be diffi- 
cult for her. 

Experience has shown that fresh cow's milk is the best 
substitute for breast milk, but it is quite essential that the 
cow's milk be of the highest grade, and if it is possible 
to secure that which is known as "certified milk," the higher 
price asked for this quality is amply repaid by the advantages 
accruing from the use of fresh, pure, clean milk, handled under 
medical supervision. 

When the milk is delivered it should be placed in the 
refrigerator at once. It is desirable, if possible, to keep the 
baby's milk in a separate ice box, where nothing else is kept. 
Nursery refrigerators can be had at any of the large depart- 
ment or hardware stores, and should be more universally 
used. 

38 



METHOD OF PREPARATION 
HEATING THE MILK 

The most simple, safe plan is to heat the milk in a 
double boiler until the steam rises, and continue heating at 
this same temperature for five minutes. Milk can also be 
subjected to the steaming process by means of pasteurizing, 
which is done as follows: 

PASTEURIZING THE MILK 

Pasteurized milk is heated to 145 degrees, and kept at this 
temperature for thirty minutes. In heating the milk in this 
manner two objects are held in view: to kill the harmful 
micro-organisms which it may contain, and to keep the milk 
sweet for a longer time than would otherwise be possible. 
The degree of heat to which milk is subjected, however, 
should depend upon the season of the year, the source of 
supply (whether reliable), the age of the milk, and the diges- 
tive capacity of the child. The more the milk is heated the 
more difficult of digestion it becomes, and the more liable it 
is to produce constipation, so that, other things being equal, 
the less the milk is heated the better nourishment is furnished 
the baby. 

In country districts, or where the cows are known to be 
healthy, and the milk clean and fresh, heating is unnecessary. 
In cities and large towns, where the source of milk may be 
unknown, and where it is from twenty-five to thirty-six hours 
old when it reaches the consumer, heating to a moderate 
degree is always a safe procedure at any time of the year. 

STERILIZING THE MILK 

Sterilized milk is that which has been heated to 212 
degrees and kept at this point for thirty minutes. At the 
present time, however, sterilized milk is rarely prescribed for 

39 



routine feeding, as its prolonged use is believed to cause 
rickets, and is a source of constipation. In poverty stricken 
honies, where ice is a luxurv, it is necessary to sterilize the 
milk for the purpose of retaining its sweetness. Children 
thus fed must have fruit juices in addition to their regular 
milk diet. 

TABLES AND RULES FOR MAKING UP FOOD 

FORMULAE 

As heretofore stated, it is advisable that the mother study 
the tables and rules for making up the food formulae, as this 
will aid her greatly in grasping the fundamental principles 
which underlie the modification of milk, and such attention 
requires no more effort than any conscientious mother should 
be willing to give in behalf of her dear one. 

The following table shows the composition of mother's 
milk in contrast to that of cow's milk : 

Mother's Milk Composition of Cow's Milk 

Fat .4 % Fat, represented by cream. 4% 

Sugar 7 % Sugar 4% 

Proteids iy 2 % Proteids, curd 4% 

In comparing these tables it will be noticed that cow's milk 
differs in these respects : the proteids of cow's milk are so in 
excess that the milk must be diluted with water to the proper 
strength in order to render it fit food for a new born baby. 
This is especially so since the proteids of cow's milk are not 
nearly so digestible as those in mother's milk. But when 
plain milk is so diluted there is not enough fat or cream, 
therefore instead of diluting plain milk for infant food, we 
dilute also the top milk or cream. 

40 



SUGAR 

Again, the sugar natural to milk (milk sugar) is deficient 
in cow's milk as compared with mother's milk, particularly 
after it is diluted, so that we must add sugar. Milk sugar, 
which can be purchased at any druggist's, is generally used, 
and agrees more often than ordinary cane sugar. 

LIME WATER 

Cow's milk is acid, while human milk is alkaline, which 
requires that we add an alkali to cow's milk to make it re- 
semble mother's milk in this particular. For this purpose we 
use lime water, which can be bought at the druggist's and 
may be safely used as long as it lasts if kept in a corked 
bottle in a cool place. 

BABY'S FOOD FORMULAE, FOR FIRST YEAR 

Cream skimmed Milk Sugar 

from top of (even tablespoons- Lime 

Milk milk Water ful) Water 

oz. oz. oz. oz. 

3rd to 7th day, 2 oz. feedings \y 2 2y 2 19 3 1 

2nd to 3rd week, 3 oz. feedings 2 2y 2 \%y> 3 1 

4th to 5th week, $y 2 oz. feedings.. 3 4 23y 2 4 \y 2 
6th week to 3rd month, 3 to A T / 2 oz. 

feedings 3 5 22y 2 4 U/ 2 

3rd to 5th month, 4 to Sy 2 oz. feed- 
ings 5 5 2oy 2 4 \y 2 

5th to 6th month, Sy 2 to 6 oz. feed- 
ings 9 7 22 Sy 2 2 

6th to 9th month, 6 to 7 oz. feedings 13 7 18 5^2 

9th to 12th month, 8 to 10 oz. feed- 
ings 24 7 \6y 2 sy 2 2y 2 

At three months a weak barley water may be used in place 
of the plain water; it is made of one teaspoonful of barley 
flour to 16 ounces of water and cooked for twenty minutes. 

At six months the barley flour may be increased to one 
even tablespoonful, cooked in 12 ounces of water. 

41 



At nine months the barley flour may be increased to three 
level tablespoonfuls cooked in 8 ounces of water. 

FOOD, IN ADDITION TO MILK, ALLOWED THE 

FIRST YEAR 

In addition to milk a healthy baby may be given fruit 
juices during the early part of his infancy, and later beef juice. 
The fruit juice may be given once a day at five or six months, 
an hour before a feeding, preferably the second. Begin with 
one teaspoonful and gradually increase the quantity to two 
tablespoonfuls. 

After baby is six months old he may have beef juice or 
broth once a day. This should be given directly before a 
feeding, preferably before the third, beginning with one tea- 
spoonful and gradually increasing the quantity to two table- 
spoonfuls. 

When baby is ten months old he may have part of a soft 
egg, a small piece of crisp toast or zweiback, or a crust of 
bread, to chew on immediately after his feeding. 

At twelve months he may take his milk undiluted and 
strained cereal may be given twice a day. 

He should now have four meals a day: At 6 A. M., 10 
A. M., 2 P. M. and 6 P. M. Nothing but water should be 
allowed between his meals. 

PATENT OR PROPRIETARY FOODS FOR BABIES 

These may be generally divided into two classes, those 
which are to be mixed with water alone, and those to be mixed 
with milk and water. The patent foods which are prepared 
with water alone, such as Condensed Milk, etc., lacking im- 
portant food elements; should not be used except under the 
advice of a physician, and for a limited period. Babies may 
gain in weight for a time from the use of this kind of food, 

42 



but are subject to scurvy, rickets, and digestive troubles, 
although these symptoms may not appear at once. The use 
of foods of this class is justified only in certain cases, as in 
times of emergency, or on journeys when other food cannot 
be procured or prepared, but they should not be regarded 
as a complete and permanent nourishment for a baby. 

In the case of patent foods which are to be mixed with 
milk it is somewhat different. These vary individually, but 
usually have too much sugar and often too much starch, a 
substance nearly always unfit for a very young baby. Of 
this group the most widely used is the malted milk, which is 
a mixture of malted milk and grain. Malted food, also greatly 
used, when diluted and mixed with milk, contains the ele- 
ments needed in a baby food, although not in quite the proper 
proportions. Certain babies fed on it should have some fruit 
juices. Thus, this second class of patent food may often be 
used to advantage under the physician's advice for a short 
time during weakness or illness, but as a general food for 
baby is inferior to modified cow's milk, which is at present 
believed to be the best substitute that can be found for 
mother's milk. 

PREPARATION OF BABY'S FOOD FOR THE DAY 
MODIFYING COW'S MILK 

Before preparing the food for the bottles, be sure that your 
hands and nails are scrupulously clean. Have all the ingredi- 
ents of which the food is composed in readiness for use; the 
utensils sterilized and the necessary articles laid out so that 
there will be no confusion. Have before you the following 
articles : 

The written formula for the baby's food. 

43 



The bottle rack on which are placed as many nursing 
bottles as there are feedings in one day, with an extra bottle 
in Case of breakage. 

The covered glass jar holding the nipples and stoppers 
for each feeding. 

THE FOOD INGREDIENTS 

The milk. 

Plain water, or barley water if required, which has been 
previously boiled. 
Sugar of milk. 
Lime water, and a kettle of boiling water for use as needed. 

THE UTENSILS 

A large saucepan with a cover for holding the milk. 

A two-quart pitcher for mixing the food. 

An eight-ounce graduated measuring glass. 

A tablespoon for mixing or stirring the food. 

A long handled teaspoon. 

A piece of sterilized cheese cloth or soft cotton for washing 
off the top of the milk bottle before opening the same. 

A pick or a fork for removing the cap from the bottle 
(after the bottle is washed). 

A porcelain or enamel funnel. 

A dipper for removing the cream or top milk (the Chapin 
improved dipper is preferred by many). 

A wire strainer for the barley water (although this latter 
should have been previously strained and ready for use, when 
modifying the milk). 

The articles above enumerated should never be used for 
any purpose other than the preparation of the baby's food. 

Measure the milk into the pitcher with the measuring 
glass, then measure the quantity of plain water or barley 

44 



water into the saucepan, add the sugar and milk, lime water 
as directed, and pour this mixture into the feeding bottles. 
After the bottles have been filled, they should be stoppered 
with the rubber corks, and placed on their racks in the 
refrigerator until feeding time. The quantity of food made 
up should be sufficient for the total number of feedings to be 
given during the twenty-four hours, so that the milk need 
not be disturbed from the time of its preparation to the time 
of feeding. 

WEANING 

Weaning : . The time of weaning babies from the breast 
depends largely upon the condition of the baby and mother. 
If the baby is not gaining or is not developing properly, he 
may be weaned at six months, but if he and also the mother 
are flourishing, the weaning should not be begun until nine 
months and completed by twelve months. Weaning should, 
however, be avoided in very hot weather unless the indications 
for it are very urgent. In beginning the bottle feeding after 
weaning, it is advisable to consult the physician regarding the 
food formulae, as great caution must be used. 



45 



Chapter VI 

TWELVE O'CLOCK 

At this time baby is given his noon feeding and should 
then go to sleep for an hour or two, at least for an hour. 
This will give the mother time for her luncheon and the needed 
opportunity for a little rest, which doubtless she will appre- 
ciate greatly, especially if she is nursing her baby and per- 
sonally devotes most of her time to its care and well being. 



46 



Chapter VII 

TWO O'CLOCK 

EXERCISE 

Babies obtain exercise by moving their arms, kicking and 
crying. It is important that they be permitted free action 
of their limbs, and from the age of four months onward it is 
an excellent plan to place the baby at times upon a blanket 
or mattress in the room which is free from draughts, and so 
arrange his clothing that he is allowed to make freely all the 
motions of which he is capable. This gives him a good 
chance to exercise and is a means of amusement. 

AMUSEMENT 

Early in life the baby needs very little diversion. Indeed, 
up to the age of six months he does not require playthings. 
It is far more essential that training should commence before 
amusement. To eat, sleep, and cry a little is about all that 
a new baby requires. Soon he will begin to see things and 
find amusement in looking around the room, in following 
moving objects with his eyes; after a while he will laugh and 
crow, discover that he has toes and fingers, and delight to 
play with them. 

Generally, after four months, he is able to hold his head 
erect without support, and begins to use his hands much 
more actively than he has done heretofore. He will often 
grasp an attractive object, look at it, and probably put it in 
his mouth, then throw it on the floor and expect some one 
to pick it up for him. 

Baby may be played with for a little while each day; but 
only for a short period, so that his playtime will come to 

47 



him as a treat, and will be something for him to look forward 
to, even at this early age. 

CRYING 

A certain amount of crying is necessary for a baby, as 
in this way he exercises his lungs, and also draws attention 
to his needs, which he is unable to designate in any other 
manner during the early months of his life. He may be 
hungry, thirsty or in pain; he may be sleepy or tired, or he 
may simply want to be played with. By a little experience 
the young mother will soon learn to distinguish the various 
shades of crying, for instance, the cry of temper, which should 
never be given in to, or the mother will have cause to regret 
her indulgence later. The baby should not be carried or 
trotted about because he is crying, or rocked to sleep, or 
given a pacifier, or soothing syrup. When he appears to be 
crying from habit or temper to be indulged, it is better to 
leave him alone in his crib. He may even cry for an hour, 
but the next time he will cry less, and after that, still less or 
not at all. If the abdominal band is properly adjusted, rup- 
ture is seldom caused by crying. 

THE CRY OF HUNGER 

The cry of hunger is a continuous fretful sound after feed- 
ing or some time before the next meal, accompanied by suck- 
ing of the fingers. If the child is a nursing baby the supply 
of milk should be examined by the physician to see if it is 
strong and plentiful enough to suit the baby's needs. A bottle 
baby who cries from hunger should have the amount of food 
made greater or the strength increased, or both. 

THE CRY OF PAIN OR COLIC 

If the baby cries from an attack of colic, this cry can be 
easily distinguished. It is strong and sharp, but not con- 

48 



tinuous. Baby will scream sharply, draw up his legs, and his 
abdomen becomes hard and tense. The remedy for this is 
first to warm his hands and feet, then turn him on his stom- 
ach, letting him lie on a hot water bottle. Gently pat his 
back to help him expel the gas, and give him a little warm 
water to drink, or better still, give him an enema of normal 
salt solution (common table salt) which will cause a bowel 
movement and thereby release some of the gas in the intes- 
tines. Colic is caused by indigestion due to improper feeding, 
and is common in young babies, generally disappearing by 
the third or fourth month. When a baby is really sick, his 
cry is feeble and whining, more like moaning. 

THUMB SUCKING 

This habit is sometimes very difficult to break. If the 
baby sucks his fingers constantly, the mother should ascer- 
tain whether this is due to hunger. Sucking of the thumb 
may sometimes be controlled by persistently taking it out of 
baby's mouth whenever it is found there. Obstinate cases 
need stronger measures, and fastening the hands to the sides 
during sleep may prove effective. Aluminum mittens are of 
great assistance, and are to be recommended; they are per- 
forated, and allow free use of the baby's arm. They can be 
had in various sizes at any of the baby shops. 



49 



Chapter VIII 

THREE O'CLOCK 

PERIOD OF WAKING 

This is baby's period of waking, and after he is dressed 
and has his three o'clock nursing, he is ready for an afternoon 
outing, which will be of great benefit to him in various ways. 
His night's sleep, will be more refreshing, his appetite and 
digestion improved, and if he is warmly clad in the proper 
clothing and plenty of covers, there need be no fear of his 
taking cold. 

SELECTION OF CARRIAGE 

The carriage selected for baby's outing should be one that 
is well built rather than ornamental, one that has good springs, 
wheels with rubber tires, and a movable hood. In winter the 
carriage should contain a flat hair mattress laid over the 
regular pad, and a small flat hair pillow for baby's head. Over 
this a soft knitted wool blanket should be placed, and in this 
baby should be carefully wrapped. Another wool blanket 
should be placed over the baby and tucked in well at the 
sides and bottom of the vehicle. In very cold weather a fur 
robe may be put over this, or some other covering of warm 
material, combining beauty with utility. 

BABY'S OUTING IN WARM WEATHER 

In warm weather, simple cotton madras or embroidered 
linen covers take the place of heavy blankets, but it is advis- 
able to tuck a padded silk quilt or soft eiderdown cover some- 
where in the carriage in case of sudden change in the tem- 
perature. 

50 



VISITORS 

When baby returns from his outing he may have visitors, 
as later in the afternoon it is well to keep him as quiet as 
possible, instead of being handled and bounced by many 
admiring friends before he retires. As he grows older and 
can hold things in his hands, a rubber toy or a soft ball of 
bright color may be given him for amusement for a little 
while, if he becomes fretful. Some mothers make the mistake 
of giving baby numberless toys at this time, of great variety, 
for which he cares not a jot. As he is surfeited with amuse- 
ment and company, he soon becomes tired. He is happier 
with one or two simple objects or toys, and furthermore, a 
baby who from infancy is constantly amused, whose every 
wish is gratified, will later lack properly developed resources 
of his own. 



51 



Chapter IX 

FOUR O'CLOCK 

SHORTENING BABY'S CLOTHES 

At this time the mother may take the opportunity of 
looking over baby's wardrobe, as when he reaches the age 
of four months his clothes may be shortened. This change 
should not be made in the winter, however, if it can be 
avoided. The number and material of the garments remain 
practically the same as before. The shortening may be accom- 
plished by cutting down the skirts of the long clothes already 
in use, lengthening the sleeves and letting out the waists if 
they have been made sufficiently large at first to allow this 
to be done. Short clothes also necessitate a decided change 
in the covering of the feet and legs, as when baby wears 
short dresses, he may then put on shoes, although these are 
not actually necessary until he begins to creep or stand; gen- 
erally about the ninth or the tenth month. Moccasins of 
chamois or kid leather may be used at first, and when real 
shoes are worn they should be made of soft kid, with thin 
soles and without heels. The'ir shape is of great importance, 
as the soft tissues of baby's feet are easily deformed by 
improperly fitting shoes. They should follow the natural 
shape of the foot, with broad toes and straight soles. 

LIST OF SHORT CLOTHES 

The following list may be convenient as a guide in select- 
ing baby's short clothes : 4 knitted binders, 4 dozen diapers, 
6 shirts, 4 flannel petticoats or Gertrude slips, 4 cambric petti- 

52 



coats for extra use, if desired; 8 to 12 slips or dresses, 8 pairs 
of stockings, 2 pairs of shoes, 3 cashmere sacks or wrappers, 
6 nightgowns, 2 creeping aprons, to cover the white slips or 
dresses; 6 bibs, 1 cloak and hood, leggings, veil, and mittens 
for outdoor wear. 



53 



Chapter X 
FIVE O'CLOCK 

GIVING BABY A SPONGE BATH— GETTING READY 

FOR BED 

At about five o'clock baby should be given a sponge bath, 
all his day clothes should be removed, and a fresh warm night- 
gown put on. The night clothes should be a complete change 
from those worn in the day time. During the winter months 
the gown should be made of flannel and closed at the bottom 
with a draw string. In hot weather the ordinary muslin night- 
gowns may be used; they are not closed at the bottom. 

HOW TO GIVE BABY A SPONGE BATH 

This simply means washing the baby, using warm water, 
pure soap and a piece of soft old linen as a wash cloth. The 
room should be warm and free from draughts and the baby 
kept covered with a blanket during the procedure. 



54 



Chapter XI 
SIX O'CLOCK 

PUTTING BABY TO SLEEP 

After the six o'clock feeding, baby should be made com- 
fortable, the room darkened, and all the equipment necessary 
for his convenience adjusted, so that he may secure the full 
benefit of an undisturbed night's rest. He should then be left 
to sleep in a bed of his own, in his own room, and not in a 
bed which his mother or any one else will share. He should 
not be rocked to sleep, nor allowed to suck a rubber nipple, 
or pacifier. If these habits are commenced they are difficult 
to break, and unless there is some real cause for a baby's 
wakefulness at this time, he should be trained from the start 
to quietly and naturally begin his night's period of unbroken 
rest. If this is done, he will be less apt to turn night into day, 
and a short term of such training will result in comfort for 
the entire family. 

There are times, however, when baby's sleep is disturbed 
from causes arising from many different sources, and the 
treatment, of course, varies accordingly. Fatigue and excite- 
ment, indigestion and overfeeding, are prolific grounds for 
disturbed sleep. A baby nursed too frequently during the 
day may show the force of habit by desiring to be fed often 
during the night, although not actually hungry. Or when 
a baby begins to fret as though sleepy, and yet will not sleep, 
it is fair to presume that he has been overfatigued. He is 
really "too tired" to sleep, and prevention of this condition 
is the cure in such a case. With some babies, especially if 
they are inclined to nervousness, and there seems to be no 

55 



apparent cause for sleeplessness except an individual pecu- 
liarity, it is often a good plan to give the daily bath at night 
instead of in the morning, making it slightly warmer than 
usual, in order to obtain its soothing action, and simply 
sponge him in the morning. Sometimes putting baby later 
to bed than is usual is of service. 

Other causes of disturbed sleep are self-evident, and it 
therefore behooves the mother to make an effort to eliminate 
the direct sources of the trouble. Baby may be restless be- 
cause he has had too exciting play before bedtime, his room 
may be too hot or too cold, a bright light or penetrating 
noises may disturb him, his bed may not be properly made 
up, and therefore uncomfortable, or he may have been put to 
bed too early. 

A baby six months old should sleep about sixteen hours 
out of the twenty-four ; when a year old, about fourteen hours. 



56 



Chapter XII 

TEN O'CLOCK 

Baby's day is practically over at six o'clock, but the ten 
o'clock feeding is given most babies until they are six months 
old. 

Sometimes emergencies arise with which a young mother 
must deal immediately; for instance, in cases of croup, con- 
vulsions, earache, etc., and it is necessary that she should 
know how to apply simple remedies until the arrival of the 
physician. 

CROUP 

Sometimes a child will awaken suddenly during the night 
with an attack of croup which seems very alarming, but 
spasmodic or catarrhal croup is rarely fatal. The symptoms 
are known to almost everyone, a dry, barking cough, with 
more or less difficulty in breathing. Although it is certainly 
distressing, it can be easily relieved. Wring out pieces of 
flannel in hot water and put them around baby's throat as hot 
as can be borne, changing them from time to time as they 
grow cold. If the attack is severe, make a tent over the 
baby's bed by means of an open umbrella, over which a large 
sheet is spread, then place the tea kettle close to the crib, 
directing the steam most effectively in this manner. The 
hot, moist atmosphere will soon cause relief, and an electric 
stove is very convenient to keep the kettle boiling. 

CONVULSIONS 

Give the baby an injection of warm, soapy water, then 
place him in a hot bath, about 110 degrees, and rub his legs, 

57 



arms and body. Keep ice on his head. Then wrap him in 
warm blankets and send for the physician. 

EARACHE 

If the baby places his hand to his ear constantly and cries 
sharply it is safe to infer that he is suffering from earache. 
Ordinarily this condition can be relieved by dropping a little 
warm olive oil or glycerine (about four drops) into his ear 
and placing a warm cloth or hot water bag next to the 
affected part. 

WOUNDS AND CUTS 

Cleanliness is the first and most important part of the 
treatment of all wounds of the skin. Therefore, wash with 
pure water, but if there is much bleeding, apply a firm band- 
age by means of strips of pure sterilized gauze and bring 
the parts and edges of the affected skin together as well as 
can be done until the physician arrives. 

RECIPES OF FOOD FOR YOUNG BABIES 

Barley Water: Stir one level tablespoonful of Robinson's 
patent barley or prepared barley flour into a little cold water 
and add to one pint of boiling water. Boil twenty minutes 
in a double boiler, strain, and add enough boiling water to 
bring the quantity up to a pint. 

Oatmeal Water: Use one tablespoonful of ordinary oat- 
meal and add to one pint of boiling water, cook in a double 
boiler for one hour, adding water as it evaporates. Strain 
and add enough boiling water to make a pint. Rice water 
may be prepared in the same way. 

Gruels: A gruel of barley, oatmeal or rice is made by 
following the previous directions for barley water, as gruel 
differs from the water or jelly only in thickness or consist- 

58 



ency. For instance, use twice as much of the barley or flour 
to the same amount of water, boil for several hours or until 
the portion has cooked down to the desired thickness, and 
strain. 

ALBUMIN WATER 

Beat the white of one egg in half a pint of cold boiled 
water, add a pinch of salt and strain through gauze or cheese- 
cloth. This is effective in case of vomiting. 

BROTHS 
Chicken, Beef, or Mutton Broth: Use a pint of water to 
each pound of meat. Put the meat on in cold water and 
allow it to come to a boil, then lower the fire so that it will 
just simmer for three or four hours. Strain through cheese- 
cloth or muslin and set away to cool. When cold, the fat 
may be removed in a solid piece, leaving a clear liquid or 
jelly. When ready to use, the portion desired should be 
seasoned with a little salt. This may be made very palatable 
and nutritious by thickening with a little arrowroot or corn- 
starch, cooking for ten minutes and adding three ounces of 
milk to half a pint of broth. 

MEATS 

Scraped Beef: Broil round steak slightly over a brisk fire. 
Split the steak and scrape out the pulp with a silver knife. 
Season ever so slightly with a little salt and butter. 

Beef Juice: To make beef juice, take one pound of thick 
round steak, broil slightly, press the juice out of it by means of 
a meat press or lemon squeezer; add a pinch of salt and give 
the proportion desired to baby when it is still warm. This 
juice should not be cooked, as it will curdle if heated too 
much. 

59 



Preparing Beef Juice by the Cold Process : Beef juice may 
also be prepared by using the cold process, that is, without 
cooking the meat at all. This is accomplished by soaking 
the meat in cold water. Use a pound of chopped round of 
beef and place in a glass jar with one-fourth as much cold 
water (six ounces). Season with a little salt and allow the 
meat to soak over night or for several hours, keeping it on 
ice. Turn the jar upside down and shake occasionally. In 
the morning empty the entire contents into a muslin bag and 
squeeze out the juice. This can be done by twisting it very 
hard. 



THE END. 



60 







LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




021 064 207 9 







